How to Disassemble the New Santana Dashboard?
3 Answers
It is best to use a dedicated key for disassembly. If unavailable, a utility knife can also be used. Note that when disassembling the Santana, the panel strip above the buttons on the head unit must be removed first. When removing the panels around the head unit, apply gentle force from underneath the panel to pry it out. When taking out the panel, be careful to remove the clips left on the car's plastic panel, ensuring they are not broken or dropped into the dashboard.
I've disassembled quite a few Santana dashboards, so let me remind you first: preparing tools is fundamental, like a Phillips screwdriver, plastic pry bar, and insulated gloves. You also need to disconnect the car battery's negative terminal to avoid short circuits. The general steps are: start from both sides of the instrument panel, gently pry open the decorative panels—don't use excessive force to avoid scratching the interior; then locate the fixing screws, usually hidden behind the air vents or stereo, and unscrew them; next, carefully pull the center console panel away slowly, as there are wiring harnesses connected behind it—remember which plug goes where, and taking photos is the easiest way to keep track. The whole process takes about half an hour, but if you get stuck, don't force it, or you might damage internal components or trigger the airbag system. After completion, check all connections are secure, and when test driving, don't go too fast to feel it out.
I think the key to dismantling the center console lies in the tools and protection. You need to prepare a basic kit, such as a T10 screwdriver and a medium-sized pry tool, and gloves are a must to prevent static electricity. Before starting, make sure the car is turned off and the battery is disconnected—this step is super important because it prevents electric shock or short-circuit issues. Then, proceed step by step: first handle the air conditioning control area, plastic clips are easy to pry but don't poke too hard; then move on to the audio and instrument panel areas, look for hidden screws and remove them slowly. Throughout the process, pay attention to the force applied, handle gently, otherwise the panels may crack or components may shift. I recommend checking the official repair manual or video tutorials beforehand for assistance, and with a few practice runs, you'll get the hang of it. Although disassembly isn't difficult, safety comes first—no compromise.
